Interior designer Tommaso Franchi leads Chelsea studio Tomèf, which he founded in 2013 after stints working for Marrakech architect Imaad Rahmouni and global practice Foster + Partners. Both roles involved lengthy periods working in Morocco; an experience that, he says ‘sharpened my respect for the beauty of craftsmanship and the importance of traditional techniques’. ‘Being surrounded by artisans every day taught me how powerful natural materials can be.’
Franchi is known for his confident, layered decoration, but as well as being inspired by Moroccan crafts, he is also influenced by his Italian heritage – he grew up near Genoa. ‘I vividly remember my passion for interiors beginning during childhood visits to Venice,’ he recalls. ‘I was mesmerised by Palladian architecture and by the way light, proportion and geometry could completely change how a space feels.’
As an architecture student in Parma, he encountered a wealth of other creative disciplines. ‘In Italy, you are encouraged to see architecture, interiors and product design as interconnected,’ he explains. ‘That way of thinking influences me every day – I always consider how architecture and interiors support one another.’
What are his recent projects? Franchi has designed the LA home of Francesco Molinari, fusing the golfing star’s Italian heritage with laid-back Californian style. ‘I drew on the surrounding landscape for the palette, using greens, earthy neutrals and blues, and layered in vintage pieces, bespoke joinery and the family’s treasured items,’ he says. ‘Throughout the house there are subtle nods to LA’s design history. I would describe my style as eclectic, but detail-driven. I believe beautiful interiors are made up of thoughtful, carefully considered details, so everything is chosen with intention.’
Closer to home, Tomèf has designed the Automat restaurant in Mayfair, in a listed building that also houses the studio’s Tanner Krolle boutique. Franchi says that the interior evokes a 1970s British mood. ‘The combination of heritage architecture and vintage energy makes it feel layered, sexy and inviting,’ he adds.
What is he currently working on? Upcoming projects include a duplex penthouse in Paris that brings together antiques and contemporary collectibles, such as a chandelier by Hervé Van Der Straeten. ‘It will feel both refined and lived in,’ says Franchi. Also much anticipated is the new Tramp Health in Grosvenor Square, a spin-off of the famous members’ club in Jermyn Street. ‘Our approach is heavily influenced by natural materials,’ reveals Franchi. ‘We want to keep a connection to the original Tramp, so there are subtle references to the 1970s and to a sensual, intimate atmosphere. It will feel like someone’s home rather than a traditional spa or health centre.’
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He says: ‘As a studio, we always try to push ourselves by discovering new suppliers and artisans, which keeps our work evolving.’ tomefdesign.com
Expert advice
Tommaso Franchi on unexpected uses for pattern, colour and texture
We rarely miss the chance to use wallpaper because it adds so much to a room. One of my favourite applications is using it on wardrobe doors. We did this in two bedrooms on a previous project, and it transformed a functional element into something playful and design-led.
Applying wallpaper to ceilings is another opportunity to use pattern in an unexpected way. We’ve done this in several projects, including the bedroom of a London pied-à-terre, where we used monochrome erotic ‘Le Couple’ wallpaper by Pierre Frey, bringing an edge and a sense of humour to the space. Wallpapered ceilings are great in guest rooms, where they add interest for visitors.
Ceilings can feel boring; I like to give them as much consideration as walls. Consider a special paint finish or colour, or pair matte walls with a glossy ceiling – this creates a beautiful reflective effect that changes the feel and scope of a room, adding warmth and intimacy.
Lighting is crucial to enhance colour and pattern. Warm, soft, shaded lighting completely transforms the atmosphere, making textures and finishes feel richer. When you combine these elements with a feature wall or ceiling, the whole room becomes more inviting and expressive.
